Our introduction to the book of 2 Peter will conclude with a look at the similarities that exist between certain portions of this letter and the Biblical book of Jude. For example, 2 Peter 2:4-3:3 and Jude 1:6-18 explore similar themes and, in certain instances, contain nearly identical wording. The subjects covered in these passages feature several parallels, including…
- Demonic beings and their future judgment (2 Peter 2:4 – Jude 1:6).
- The Old Testament cities of Sodom and Gomorrah (2 Peter 2:6 – Jude 1:7).
- Disrespect for authority figures (2 Peter 2:10 – Jude 1:8).
- Angelic beings and their refusal to bring reviling accusations (2 Peter 2:11 – Jude 1:9).
- A reference to Balaam, the Old Testament figure who collaborated with a rival king and devised a strategy to ensure Israel’s downfall (2 Peter 2:15 – Jude 1:11).
- False teachers and others who speak great swelling words of emptiness (2 Peter 2:18 – Jude 1:16).
- Scoffers or mockers who walk according to their own lusts (2 Peter 3:3 – Jude 1:18).
One Biblical scholar discusses these similarities along with their implications…
“Some relationship between 2 Peter and Jude is virtually certain. Although verbatim agreement is rare (2:17; cf. Jude 13), they have similar ideas, words, OT illustrations, and order of text (2:1–18; cf. Jude 4–16). Several explanations are possible. Either 2 Peter used Jude (the scholarly consensus), or Jude used 2 Peter, or there was a common source unknown to us.
None of these possibilities regarding the direction of dependence between 2 Peter and Jude (or even a lost shared source) is problematic for the apostolic authority of this epistle. There is no reason why an apostle could not choose to make use of other documents in his writing as long as these documents teach the truth.” (1)
So, armed with this background information, we will set out on a journey through the Biblical book of 2 Peter. Much like the practice sessions that help prepare a student, athlete, or musician, the book of 2 Peter functions in much the same manner. Rather than solely instructing us, the book of 2 Peter reminds us to practice the things we have already learned.
Finally, we should remember Jesus’ poignant exchange with Simon Peter just prior to His ascension: “…’Simon, son of Jonah, do you love Me? …Feed My sheep'” (John 21:17). Now, as Peter’s imminent death draws ever closer, he will take the opportunity to share some final words with those whom Jesus entrusted to him so many years earlier.
(1) R. C. Sproul, ed., The Reformation Study Bible: English Standard Version (2015 Edition) (Orlando, FL: Reformation Trust, 2015), 2254.